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western College Basketball Power Rankings: Arizona Remains Undefeated as March Approaches
The college basketball season is officially in full swing, with several Western teams vying for NCAA Tournament contention.While the big 12 is experiencing an extraordinary year, and conferences like the WCC and big Ten maintain their consistent strength, the Mountain West faces challenges after a challenging nonconference schedule. Here’s a look at the current Top 10 teams in the West, as assessed on January 26, 2024.
1. Arizona (20-0, 7-0)
The Wildcats are on the cusp of achieving a historic season. currently boasting a perfect 20-0 record,Arizona is a dominant force led by Caleb Love,Kylan Boswell,and Oumar Ballo. The emergence of freshman forward Keshad Johnson has added another dimension to their attack. AJ Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Robert Wright III. One observer noted that there may not be a more impactful group of players in the country. With a current record of 17-2, the Cougars are poised for a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, with an Elite Eight appearance appearing within reach.
2. arizona state (17-2, 8-1)
Despite a recent surge, the Gonzaga Bulldogs are navigating injury concerns. Star forward Braden Huff is sidelined for an extended period, and big man Graham Ike has missed recent games. However, with two months remaining before the NCAA Tournament, there’s ample time for the Zags to regain their full strength and solidify their position as a top team.
3. Gonzaga (21-1, 9-0)
Consistency defines Saint Mary’s basketball under head coach Randy Bennett.The Gaels consistently perform at a high level, and this year is no exception. Currently positioned for another NCAA Tournament berth and a potential Round of 32 appearance, the question remains whether they can finally break through to the Sweet Sixteen.
4.Saint Mary’s (19-3, 8-1)
A pivotal win over Purdue dramatically altered the trajectory of UCLA’s season. After a period of underperformance,the victory over the Boilermakers provided a important boost to their resume. How the Bruins perform in the remainder of the season will be critical, but the purdue win offers a valuable data point.
5.UCLA (14-6, 6-3)
The Mountain West Conference’s struggles in nonconference play will likely limit the number of NCAA Tournament bids it receives. However, San Diego State currently leads the conference standings, holding a one-game advantage over Utah State and New Mexico. projections from bracketologists like Joe Lunardi currently place SDSU on the bubble, with only two at-large bids anticipated from the MWC.
6. San Diego State (14-5, 8-1)
The California Golden Bears are enjoying their best season in years.With nonconference victories over UCLA and North Carolina, the program is in contention for its first NCAA Tournament appearance as 2016. Securing one or two more significant wins will be crucial for solidifying their tournament hopes.
7. California (15-5, 3-4)
eric Olen has exceeded expectations in his first season leading the New Mexico Lobos. While losses to Boise State and New Mexico State raise concerns, victories over Santa Clara, GCU, VCU, and Mississippi State demonstrate the team’s potential. Currently considered a bubble team, the Lobos could be among the last four teams in the field if the Selection Show where held today.
8.New Mexico (16-4, 7-2)
Despite a loss to Northwestern, USC has assembled a resume strong enough to warrant NCAA Tournament consideration. Road wins against Wisconsin and a nonconference victory over Seton Hall bolster their case. Playing in a respected power conference like the Big Ten also provides a valuable boost.
9. USC (15-5, 4-5)
Utah State has compiled an extraordinary record but lacks signature wins that would solidify their tournament profile. While Joe lunardi currently projects the Aggies to make the field, based on their past standing with the NCAA Selection Committee, they have significant work ahead to secure their spot.
10. Utah State (16-3, 7
